polygraph

noun

An instrument that measures the physiological responses of an individual to questions from an examiner who interprets the results as indicating the likelihood that the individual is telling or not telling the truth in giving the answers.

transitive verb

pol·y·graphed, pol·y·graph·ing, pol·y·graphs

To test (a criminal suspect, for example) with a polygraph.

Related Forms:

po·lyg′ra·pher , po·lyg′ra·phist

noun

pol′y·graph′ic

adjective

polygraph

Noun

(plural polygraphs)

A device which measures and records several physiological variables such as blood pressure, heart rate, respiration and skin conductivity while a series of questions is being asked to a subject, in an attempt to detect lies.

(dated) An mechanical instrument for multiplying copies of a writing, resembling multiple pantographs.

(archaic) A collection of different works, either by one or several authors.